OPINION
Spanish goalkeeper Adrian is one of West Ham United’s longest-serving players, having joined the club five years ago from Real Betis.
His service to the club has been exemplary, with the 31-year-old forcing his way into the first-team for several seasons with some brilliant performances, and becoming a fan favourite at the London Stadium.
However, it looks like this summer could bring an important decision for the club as they look to revamp their defence, and Manuel Pellegrini must dump the long-serving stopper.
Adrian has spoken out about speculation linking him to former club Real Betis this summer, saying, as quoted by Estadio Deportivo: “Of course I am aware of all the rumours, but it is true that Betis still have a goalkeeper. I have to deal with my club and Betis with their goalkeepers, but going home is always going to be something that seduces you. It is clear that if the time comes we would sit down and talk about it.”
It is clear from these comments that Adrian himself is not entirely convinced of a stay at the club this summer, and Pellegrini should seize on this to let him go.
The two are obviously set to sit down for talks very soon amid the mounting speculation, and Pellegrini must use this opportunity to tell Adrian that he is surplus to requirements at the London Stadium.
The Spaniard has shown signs of decline this season after being unable to depose Joe Hart from the number one spot for longer than a few weeks, and the club need change this summer.
The Hammers are reportedly in pursuit of several stoppers, and bringing in a whole new set of goalkeepers will allow Pellegrini the best chance of succeeding in that area in his first season.
A stay for Adrian this summer suits no one, and Pellegrini must seize his chance for a fresh start between the sticks and offload the 31-year-old in the coming weeks.
